and mitt romney goes to colorado monday and the debate is wednesday. besides the preparation, we're seeing both campaigns trying to low low expectations. not just campaigns, listen to governor romney. >> he's president of the united states and an eloquent speaker. >> he's a very eloquent speaker and in his debate last time with senator mccain, he'll be very eloquent. >> reporter: the whole idea is lower the bar and if you're doing well you beat expectations and win the debate, the spin they're playing. listen to stephanie from the obama campaign. >> what history tells us that challengers normally win the first debate just by the fact they're standing on the stage with the president. that elevates them and normally come into this as underdogs. we're coming into this very realistic mitt romney is likely to win if he plays his cards right. >> reporter: while the candidates themselves are laying low today, the running mates will be in the spotlight. >> tell us about what paul ryan is doing this weekend while mitt romney is rehearsing and getting ready in m